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Southold veteran honored at Citi Field during Mets game

George_Sullivan

At every home game, the New York Mets honor a “Veteran of the Game.” A player presents the veteran with an American flag that flew over Citi Field and a brief video plays on the big screen detailing the veteran’s achievements.

On Saturday night, during a Mets’ 12-1 win over the Philadelphia Phillies, George Sullivan of Southold got the chance to be recognized by the team he’s always rooted for. A Vietnam veteran who lost his left leg during battle while serving in the Marines, Mr. Sullivan was recently profiled by the Suffolk Times for his quote featured on a memorial in Washington D.C.

Mr. Sullivan, who has served as the town’s receiver of taxes for more than two decades, stood behind home plate alongside pitcher Seth Lugo in front of a crowd of more than 35,000 fans Saturday. His grandson also the chance to go onto the field for batting practice.

“The game was great as well as the ceremony honoring me,” Mr. Sullivan said.

He got to speak with Mets general manager Sandy Alderson, who is also a Vietnam veteran. Mr. Sullivan said they talked about baseball and their experiences in the Marines.

Photo caption: George Sullivan at Citi Field Saturday with Mets pitcher Seth Lugo. (Credit: courtesy photo)